Labixten (Antihistamine)

What is Labixten?

Labixten is a prescription antihistamine widely used for the symptomatic treatment of allergic rhinoconjunctivitis and urticaria (hives). It helps reduce bothersome allergic responses such as sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, and skin welts.

As a second-generation H1-receptor antagonist, it works by selectively blocking histamine receptors in the peripheral nervous system rather than the brain. This specific chemical targeting means it provides effective allergy relief while causing minimal sedation compared to older antihistamine classes.

Generic Names:

• Bilastine: The active pharmaceutical ingredient used globally to manage allergic reactions and hives.

Global Brand Names:

Bilastine is distributed globally under several brand names.

• Labixten (快敏清): A commonly prescribed non-sedating antihistamine in Hong Kong, available as standard tablets for adults and orodispersible tablets for children.
• Bilaxten: A frequently used European brand name for the identical bilastine formulation.

These names all refer to the same medication. It's important to note that while the active ingredient is the same, different countries may have different regulations and available medication formulations.

What is Labixten used for?

Labixten is used to relieve:

• Sneezing, nasal discharge, and nasal congestion
• Itchy, watery, and red eyes
• Skin itching and wheals (urticaria)

How do you use Labixten?

Availability:

• Standard oral tablets (20 mg)
• Orodispersible tablets (10 mg)
• Oral solution

Dosage Information:

• Adults and Adolescents (over 12 years): 20 mg once daily.
• Children (6 to 11 years, weighing at least 20 kg): 10 mg once daily.
• Elderlies: Standard adult dosing, unless severe renal impairment is present.

Suitability:

• Adults and Adolescents: Yes, for general allergy relief.
• Children (6 to 11 years): Yes, using specific paediatric formulations.
• Children under 6 years: No, safety and efficacy are not established.

Who cannot take Labixten?

Allergies and unsuitability:

• Rare, but possible allergic reactions to bilastine or tablet excipients.

Conditions where the drug should not be used:

• Known allergy to bilastine

Labixten is generally well-tolerated, with common side effects including mild headache and occasional drowsiness. Although it is a non-sedating antihistamine, a small percentage of users may experience slight fatigue or dizziness.

Uncommon adverse reactions can include dry mouth, abdominal pain, gastritis, and nasal dryness. Unlike older first-generation antihistamines, Labixten rarely causes significant weight gain, dry eyes, or severe anticholinergic effects. Exceeding the recommended dosage does not provide additional allergy relief and may increase the risk of experiencing these side effects.

• Take on an empty stomach to ensure full absorption.
• Do not consume food or fruit juices (especially grapefruit juice) within one hour before or two hours after taking the medication to avoid reducing its effectiveness.
• Avoid P-glycoprotein inhibitors (like ketoconazole or erythromycin) if you have moderate to severe renal impairment to prevent elevated bilastine levels.
• Test your individual reaction before driving or operating complex machinery, as rare dizziness or drowsiness can occur.

Storage information:

• Keep in a cool, dry place below 30°C.
• Store in the original blister packaging to protect from moisture.
• Keep strictly out of reach of children.

Handling instructions:

• Swallow standard tablets whole with a glass of water.
• Take orodispersible tablets immediately after removing them from the blister pack, as they are highly sensitive to moisture.
• Allow orodispersible tablets to dissolve in the mouth completely before swallowing.

Where is Labixten available in Hong Kong?

In Hong Kong, Labixten is classified as a Prescription Only Medicine. This means it cannot be purchased freely over the counter.

Patients must present a valid doctor's prescription to obtain this medication. It can be purchased at registered pharmacies and dispensaries that display the "Rx" logo, under the direct supervision of a registered pharmacist.